Netherlands to upgrade its fleet of MQ-9A Reaper drones to conduct NATO missions

Europe, News, US April 1, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) has announced its plans to enhance its MQ-9A Reapers fleet in collaboration with the U.S.-based defense manufacturer, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The latest upgrade involves integrating new weaponry and radars onto unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Dutch MQ-9 Reaper Drones will undergo modifications to enable them to carry laser-guided bombs and air-to-surface Hellfire missiles. Most of the weapons are already familiar to the Netherlands army, as they are currently used with the country’s F-35 fighter jets. The anticipated cost of the procurement, modification, and weapons for the drone fleet falls within the range of $107 to $268 million.

Over the course of the next three years, General Atomics will implement a sequence of gradual improvements to the Reapers, incorporating new payloads such as maritime radar, communications relay, extended-range fuel tanks, electronic support measures, and weaponry.

“The RNLAF [Royal Netherlands Air Force] is using the MQ-9A for an increasing set of NATO missions,” Lieutenant-Colonel Jan Ruedisueli of the Dutch Air Force said in a statement. “With these upgrades, we will support NATO’s ISR [intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance] and maritime surveillance missions throughout Europe,” he added.

Currently, the Dutch Air Force effectively operates a modest fleet of four MQ-9As, a number set to expand with the anticipated arrival of an additional four units scheduled to join the ranks starting in 2026.

The decision to retrofit the MQ-9As with advanced weaponry underscores the Dutch government’s recognition of the evolving nature of modern warfare. By integrating cutting-edge technology into its existing drone infrastructure, the Netherlands is strategically positioning itself to effectively respond to a spectrum of potential threats and contingencies. This forward-thinking approach underscores the nation’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding its interests and upholding regional stability.

*^{The Royal Netherlands Air Force MQ-9A Reaper drone. (Image Credit: Royal Netherlands Air Force)}*

Vice President of International Strategic Development at General Atomics, Jaime Walters highlighted the modularity of their platforms as a crucial aspect, enabling them to swiftly address a wide range of customer needs.

Anticipated for initial deployment in 2025, followed by full deployment three years thereafter, the armed drones represent a strategic milestone for the country’s military capabilities. The forthcoming batch of MQ-9A at the Dutch Air Force will possess inherent weapons capabilities, eliminating the need for subsequent modifications.

The MQ-9A Block 5 has a payload capacity of 3,850 pounds (1,746 kilograms) which includes 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms) of external stores. According to the General Automics statement, the drone has a “long-endurance, surveillance capability with full-motion video, Synthetic Aperture Radar/Moving Target Indicator/Maritime Radar, and ESM”. The Block 5 variant of MQ-9A is equipped with a “fault-tolerant flight control system” as well as a “triple-redundant avionics system architecture”.

With their advanced capabilities, these drones are poised to significantly augment soldier protection by operating in previously inaccessible areas. With cutting-edge technology the armed drones will be under the complete control and oversight of a dedicated ground crew, ensuring precise and accountable operations.